Posts
Also indexed as
Para-Aminobenzoic Acid
Introduction
Introduction
Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a compound that is an essential nutrient for microorganisms and some animals, but has not been shown to be essential for people. PABA is considered by some to be a member of the vitamin B-complex, though its actions differ widely from other B vitamins.
Where is it found?
PABA is found in grains and foods of animal origin.
PABA has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns
* - Dermatitis Herpetiformis
* - Dermatomyositis
* - Infertility (female)
* - Pemphigus
* - Peyronie’s disease
* - Scleroderma
* - Vitiligo
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Where is it found?
PABA is found in grains and foods of animal origin.
PABA has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns
* - Dermatitis Herpetiformis
* - Dermatomyositis
* - Infertility (female)
* - Pemphigus
* - Peyronie’s disease
* - Scleroderma
* - Vitiligo
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Who is likely to be deficient?
Deficiencies of PABA have not been described in humans, and most nutritionists do not consider it an essential nutrient.
Which form of PABA is best?
PABA is available as a nutritional supplement, but because it is mildly acidic, it can cause stomach irritation when taken in large amounts. The potassium salt of PABA, called Potaba®, which is available by prescription, tends to be better tolerated.
How much is usually taken?
Small amounts of PABA are present in some B-complex vitamins and multivitamin formulas. The amount of PABA used in the studies described above ranged from 300 mg to 12 grams per day. Anyone taking more than 400 mg of PABA per day should consult a physician.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
No serious side effects have been reported with 300–400 mg per day. Larger amounts (such as 8 grams per day or more) may cause low blood sugar, rash, fever, and (on rare occasions) liver damage.1 One report exists of vitiligo appearing after ingestion of large amounts of PABA2 and use of amounts over 20 grams per day in small children has resulted in deaths.3 There is also a report of a death from toxic hepatitis in a person with lupus, who took as much as 48 grams per day for six days, followed by 8 grams per day for seven months.4
No interactions between PABA and other nutrients have been reported. However, PABA interferes with sulfa drugs (a class of antibiotics) and therefore should not be taken when these medications are being used.
Who is likely to be deficient?
Deficiencies of PABA have not been described in humans, and most nutritionists do not consider it an essential nutrient.
Which form of PABA is best?
PABA is available as a nutritional supplement, but because it is mildly acidic, it can cause stomach irritation when taken in large amounts. The potassium salt of PABA, called Potaba®, which is available by prescription, tends to be better tolerated.
How much is usually taken?
Small amounts of PABA are present in some B-complex vitamins and multivitamin formulas. The amount of PABA used in the studies described above ranged from 300 mg to 12 grams per day. Anyone taking more than 400 mg of PABA per day should consult a physician.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
No serious side effects have been reported with 300–400 mg per day. Larger amounts (such as 8 grams per day or more) may cause low blood sugar, rash, fever, and (on rare occasions) liver damage.1 One report exists of vitiligo appearing after ingestion of large amounts of PABA2 and use of amounts over 20 grams per day in small children has resulted in deaths.3 There is also a report of a death from toxic hepatitis in a person with lupus, who took as much as 48 grams per day for six days, followed by 8 grams per day for seven months.4
No interactions between PABA and other nutrients have been reported. However, PABA interferes with sulfa drugs (a class of antibiotics) and therefore should not be taken when these medications are being used.
Drug Interactions
Certain medicines interact with PABA: Some interactions may increase the need for PABA (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate PABA should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.
Certain medicines interact with PABA: Some interactions may increase the need for PABA (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate PABA should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.
Source: www.cncahealth.com
No comments:
Post a Comment